the issues, and governor romney has embraced at least everything i can see. i don't want to say anything in the debate that's not completely accurate. >> reporter: so what are the candidates' biggest strengths? analysts say for ryan it's his ability to speak in detail about policy issues. for biden, his ease in talking about how national policies affect ordinary people. here is congressman ryan's take on biden. >> he's fast on the cuff, he's a witty guy, he knows who he is and he's been doing this for 40 years. you're not going to rattle joe biden. joe is very good on the attack. joe is very good at trying to confuse the issues. >> reporter: when it comes to advice for the candidates? >> try to be comfortable in your skin, be rested, look into the camera, smile from time to time. >> reporter: and a little humor always helps. >> i can see my wife and i think she's thinking, gee, i wish you would go out into the private sector. i'm goi >> i'm going to try to help you do that, joe. >> athena jones. >> vice president biden and congressman paul ryan get their turn